Perfect Rice Krispie Treats Recipe

Soft, chewy, and perfectly gooey, this Rice Krispie Treats Recipe uses extra butter and a special marshmallow technique to create bakery-quality treats at home!

Quick Recipe Overview

WHAT: Crispy rice cereal treats bound with melted butter and marshmallows, with extra mini mallows folded in for pockets of gooey goodness.

WHY: This foolproof recipe uses extra butter and low heat to create soft, chewy treats that never turn hard or dense.

HOW: Melt butter and marshmallows on low heat, stir in vanilla and cereal, press gently into a pan, and cool before cutting.

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Why I Love Making Rice Krispie Treats

My rice krispie treat recipe is different from the standard box version because of the generous amount of butter I use — more than double the traditional amount. This creates treats that stay soft and chewy instead of turning into jaw-breaking bricks within hours. The secret technique of reserving a cup of mini marshmallows to fold in at the end creates delightful gooey pockets throughout.

These treats come together fast, making them perfect for last-minute bake sales, potlucks, or those moments when you need something sweet real quick. They’re endlessly customizable with mix-ins, and kids absolutely love helping make them.

Ingredient Notes

Mini Marshmallows: Fresh marshmallows are crucial—stale ones won’t melt smoothly and create tough treats. Check the expiration date and choose a bag that feels soft when you squeeze it. The reserved cup of marshmallows added at the end creates pockets of gooeyness throughout. Marshmallow crème can be used as an alternative, though the texture will be slightly different from the original recipe.

Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract increases the flavor significantly compared to imitation vanilla. It adds warmth and depth that complements the butter and marshmallows beautifully.

Rice Crispy Cereal: Any brand of crispy rice cereal works perfectly. Store-brand versions are budget-friendly and taste just as good as name brands. Make sure the cereal is fresh and crispy—not stale.

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How To Make Rice Krispie Treats

Step 1: Grease a 9-inch square baking pan generously with butter or cookie spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Melt butter in a large pan over medium heat. Reduce to medium-low, add all marshmallows except 1 cup, and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth.

Step 3: In a large saucepan melt butter over medium heat. Add the rice crispy cereal and reserved 1 cup of mini marshmallows, stirring thoroughly until no dry cereal remains.

Step 4: Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Using a lightly dampened spatula or hands, gently spread into an even layer without pressing too hard (this keeps them soft). A buttered spatula works perfectly for creating smooth layers.

Step 5: Let treats cool at room temperature for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Step 6: Cut into 2-inch squares or 16 squares depending on your preferred size. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Substitutions & Variations

Cereal variations

Swap rice crispy cereal for Fruity Pebbles, Cocoa Pebbles, or Cinnamon Toast Crunch for fun flavor twists.

Mix-ins

Fold in chocolate chips, M&Ms, sprinkles, crushed cookies or chopped nuts after removing from heat. About 1/2 to 1 cup works well without overwhelming the base.

Flavor additions

Try 1/2 teaspoon almond extract instead of vanilla, add a pinch of sea salt on top, or stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with the marshmallows.

Gluten-free option

Use certified gluten-free crispy rice cereal. The recipe works exactly the same way.

Brown Butter Upgrade

Brown the butter before adding the marshmallows for a nutty, caramel-like flavor that adds sophisticated depth. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

What to Serve With Rice Krispie Treats

These treats are perfect alongside a cold glass of milk for an after-school snack or casual dessert. Serve them at birthday parties with ice cream for a fun make-your-own dessert bar where kids can top their treats with chocolate sauce, whipped cream, or extra sprinkles.

For adult gatherings, pair them with hot coffee or espresso—the buttery sweetness complements the coffee’s bitterness beautifully. They’re also wonderful as part of a dessert spread at potlucks, placed next to brownies and cookies for variety.

Pack them in lunchboxes as a special treat, or crumble them over vanilla ice cream for a crunchy topping. They also make fantastic gifts when cut into squares, wrapped individually in cellophane, and tied with ribbon.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Room Temperature

Store rice krispie treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Layer parchment paper between stacked treats to prevent sticking.

Refrigerator Storage

While not necessary, refrigerated treats will last up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer Storage

Wrap individual treats in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 6 weeks. Thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Make Ahead

Prepare treats up to 2 days in advance. Store in an airtight container and cut just before serving for the cleanest edges.

Reheating

These are best enjoyed at room temperature, but you can microwave individual treats for 5-10 seconds to restore that fresh-from-the-pan softness.

Similar Recipes to Try

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Crispy Treats are a rich take on the classic sweet snacks
• Fruity Pebbles cereal makes a delicious alternative to plain rice crispies
• Scotcheroos are probably the most famous variation on a rice crispy treat